NRL: Queensland to defeat New South Wales in State of Origin Three @ $1.62

Combined multi total: $6.67 with sportsbet.com.au

AFL: Western Bulldogs vs. Carlton

Saturday, July 4, 2015, 7.20pm AEST

Prediction: Western Bulldogs win by 1-39 points ($2.25)

Carlton has rejuvenated itself after sacking Mick Malthouse, winning back-to-back games against Port Adelaide and the Gold Coast Suns.

But we think they’re just papering over the significant cracks of their list under John Barker and the bubble is going to burst sooner, rather than later. Aside from Patrick Cripps and Tom Bell, Carlton fans have very little to look forward to and, despite a welcome return to form from oft injured number one draft pick Matthew Kruezer, we reckon it could be all down hill from here.

On the Doggies side of things, they’ve surprised plenty with their free flowing football and, on the back of a pair of wins, hold a spot in the top eight.

While the Blues will be competitive, a win here and, with the lowly Gold Coast to follow, the Bulldogs have too much to lose to let this one drop.

Cricket: First Ashes Test Australia vs. England

Wednesday, July 8, 2015, 7.30pm AEST

Prediction: Australia wins ($1.83)

There’s already been plenty of arty bargy between the Australians and the English ahead of this series, but none of that matters a dime if they can’t put it together on the field.

On paper, the Aussies look the far superior side, but paper can be deceptive. Just ask Allan Border about his 1989 side, which was branded the worst touring party ever and promptly went on to win the series 4-0.

English conditions can be a great leveller, however and, while we don’t think the Aussies will have it all their own way throughout the series, we do reckon they’ll kick things off with a bang in the opener.

How about a ton from Steve Smith to silence critics of his ability to handle batting at three with the swinging Dukes ball being speared down at him?

State of Origin: Queensland vs. New South Wales

Wednesday, July 8, 2015, 8.20pm AEST

Prediction: Queensland wins ($1.62)

It’s been a typically-enthralling State of Origin Series to date, with Queensland and New South Wales splitting their two clashes.

But that’s all out the window.

This will be one of the most hotly contested State of Origin matches of all time.

Can the Blues go back-to-back, or will Queensland wrench back control of the time honoured competition?

New South Wales has made just the two changes to a side that won Origin Two, 26-18, but Queensland will step out with a vastly different look.

Star Billy Slater has had shoulder surgery, while Daly Cherry-Evans has been dumped and Josh McGuire is out for the year with a wrecked achilles.